Hot Shot Social Media Poster Indicted For Poisoning Food In Mesa

January 21, 2025 ADI Staff Reporter
hot shot mug shot
Charles Smith was arrested on December 21.

A wannabe social media star, 27-year-old Charles Smith, has been indicted for dousing bug spray on food at a grocery store in Mesa.

According to the Mesa Police Department, on December 21, Smith was arrested in connection with what they describe as “a reckless social media post” involving the spraying of pesticides on produce and other food items at a Mesa Walmart.

Smith allegedly entered the store intending to film pranks for social media but instead selected a can of Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer from the shelf without paying for it. He then sprayed the pesticide on various produce items, including vegetables, fruit, and rotisserie chickens that were available for purchase. Smith filmed his face, the pesticide can, and the act of spraying. He later posted the video online.

Because the meat and produce had to be discarded, the defendant’s actions caused more than $900 in damage.

The grand jury indicted Smith on the following charges:

  • One count of Burglary in the Third Degree, a Class Four Felony
  • Two counts of Adding Poison or Other Harmful Substance to Water, Food, Drink, or Medicine, a Class Six Felony
  • One count of Endangerment, a Class One Misdemeanor
  • One count of Criminal Damage, a Class One Misdemeanor
    • About ADI Staff Reporter 13423 Articles
    Under the leadership of Editor-in -Chief Huey Freeman, our team of staff reporters bring accurate,timely, and complete news coverage.